As a general rule I do not write these sorts of blogs, however this is something which has touched me and I feel strongly about.
Oscar Pistorius is the only one who knows the truth as to what happened on Valentine’s Day. We have heard versions of the story, allegations, and here say – the facts even seem a bit dodgy at best. The only fact, known to us, is that on that tragic morning, Oscar shot his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp, which resulted in her untimely death. I have my own theories as to what may have happened that morning as do most of the nation. I personally (and please, get that this is my opinion) do not believe it was premeditated. I believe they had an argument and for whatever reason he lost his temper – which resulted in unthinkable tragedy.
The nation is so quick to try him, have him serve life imprisonment, and I even read people hoping he gets raped in prison. Good grief people, are we such a hard and judgmental nation? Merely a week ago, Oscar was a hero to millions, a true legend and an ambassador. Have we not all at some stage of our lives made mistakes? And yes, I get that this is more complex than a mistake or a lapse in judgment. But he is human. He stuffed up and he will pay for this for the rest of his life, regardless of the outcome of his trial.
In no way am I endorsing murder or what he did. It may be unforgivable but surely it is, on a level, somehow understandable? Why are we so quick to judge? Why can we collectively not offer support to Reeva and Oscar’s family? A thoughtless act committed out of anger (?) has led to a multitude of lives changing irrevocably, forever. Perhaps, this is a life experience they needed to have. Everything happens for a reason. We do not know.
It shocks me how quick we are to stand in judgment of others (and yes, I include myself in this). I am in full awareness that this blog will get many, many backs up. Again I reiterate that this is my opinion (to which I am entitled, as you are to yours).
I am not ignoring the “facts” (whatever they may be) or the tragedy of this. It is awful. But worse crimes are committed daily in our country – and they do not receive nearly as much publicity as this.
Maybe if we, as a nation, stood collectively in love and support, instead of in hatred, we would read less of these appalling stories.
Let the onslaught begin.
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